The Kno Textbook Tablet Preview

Almost every new tablet that has emerged in the iPad-dominated market has essentially been a direct competitor to the iPad, offering little, if any, basic usability advantages. It is for that reason that the Kno tablet stands out from the crowd. This tablet is being marketed to schools that are tired of dealing with the yearly fiasco of selling, renting, or even giving away textbooks. For many schools (both K-12 and higher education), the long-term savings and technological advantage may far outweigh the initial cost of the device. The Kno comes in two versions: one traditional-looking tablet with a single color screen, and another with dual screens connected together to allow the tablet to open like a book. The screen, at 14.1 inches, is much larger than an iPad or Samsung Galaxy S, but that is most likely by design. It is, after all, intended for work, not play. Nevertheless, the ability to play is there, as it is fully web-connected for research or other browsing.

One of the most interesting features of the Kno tablet is not the hardware or software but the way in which it is being developed. Anyone can go to the project’s website and join the advisory panel to offer their input on development. They are particularly looking for educators and other thinkers who could be eventual customers. Furthermore, the operating system of the Kno is Ubuntu Linux with a Webkit-based interface. This means that all apps for the Kno are written in HTML, CSS, and Javascript.

The Kno gives students the ability to take notes with an included pen, right on the screen, and even make notes and annotations directly on their textbooks, highlighting key words, dropping in sticky notes, or circling important items. It also supports video playback in a variety of formats, including Adobe Flash player.

Pre-orders of the Kno have just started shipping to select customers. It will eventually be something that schools can purchase in bulk, distribute to students, and even allow the students to take home and use whenever they need it. The company behind Kno sees itself as an innovator hoping to change education, the way people learn and the way knowledge is used. This is a lofty goal, but it is definitely one that warrants attention. One thing I do Kno for sure is that this tablet will likely change the landscape of the tablet market for the better.

Keep in mind that their early marketing seems to be geared toward colleges and universities. They have more flexibility over book selection, and battery life will be needed more outside of class than in class.

Tavis, the problem is that they’re not delivering the devices!! If I’m not mistaken, they were supposed to start shipping the devices on 12/20. It’s now 12/30 and we haven’t seen a single _independent_ review of the device. Even their own “unboxing” was nothing more than someone showing a powered off device out of the box. What the heck is that?

And to be clear, I’m a huge fan of the idea of the device and am chewing off my fingernails waiting for mine to be delivered.

I’ve had an entourage edge since March 2010 — dual screen (LCD and eInk reader screens) Android device. The edge is more of a general purpose, not as glitzy as the Kno or specifically committed in to the student demographic. I use it every day for note taking and annotating design documents printes as PDF files. It’s worked great for me. The Kno looks slick, but it’s way more expensing, heavy, and did I mention expensive?